Super tasty! Plus, it’s all from the pantry. Eager to make another batch!

The Korean Beef and Rice Casserole is a delightful fusion dish that merges the rich flavors of Korean cuisine with the comforting format of a casserole, making it perfect for family dinners or large gatherings. The dish is inspired by the bold and savory components commonly found in Korean cooking, such as soy sauce, sesame oil, and gochujang (Korean chili paste). For those looking to explore international flavors in an approachable way, this casserole presents the ideal opportunity.

To complement the robust flavors of the Korean Beef and Rice Casserole, consider serving it with a side of lightly steamed vegetables such as broccoli or bok choy. A cucumber salad dressed in vinegar and sesame seeds can add a refreshing touch. For an additional Korean touch, serve kimchi on the side to enhance the meal with its spicy and tangy flavor profile.

Servings: 6

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
2 cups beef broth
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onions are translucent.

4. Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, gochujang, sugar, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to blend the flavors.

5. Mix the uncooked rice into the skillet, then pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.

6. Transfer the beef and rice mixture to a casserole dish. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

7. Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.

This versatile casserole can be easily customized to suit different tastes. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of gochujang, or add some sliced red chili peppers. Vegetarians can substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu or a meat substitute, using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. If you prefer chicken, ground chicken can be used in place of beef without any other adjustments.